China Travel Informations: Discover China's Hidden Gems - 10 Attractions You Need to Visit

The Great Wall of China
The Great Wall of China is not only a massive physical structure, but it also holds great cultural and historical significance for China. The wall was first constructed in the 7th century BCE, and over the centuries it has been expanded and rebuilt by various dynasties. The wall as it is known today was largely built during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) and is considered one of the greatest engineering feats in human history.
The Great Wall was not just a physical barrier to protect against invaders, but it was also a symbol of China's strength and power. It was a source of pride for the Chinese people and served to unify the country in a time of political and social turmoil. The wall also played an important role in trade and communication, as it provided a secure transportation route for goods and messages across the country.
Visitors to the Great Wall today can explore various sections of the wall, each with its own unique character and history. The most popular sections for tourists are Badaling, Mutianyu, and Jinshanling, but there are also many other sections that are less crowded and offer a more authentic experience.
Hiking along the wall is a truly unforgettable experience, as visitors are treated to stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the wall itself. The steep inclines and rugged terrain can be challenging, but the reward is well worth it. The feeling of standing atop the wall and looking out over the vast landscape is a truly humbling experience, and visitors can't help but feel a sense of awe and wonder at the sheer scale and grandeur of the wall.
The Forbidden City
The Forbidden City, also known as the Palace Museum, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Beijing, China. It is a sprawling palace complex that was the home of the Chinese emperors for over 500 years, from the Ming to the Qing dynasties. The Forbidden City is a true masterpiece of Chinese architecture, with its impressive array of buildings, ornate decorations, and beautiful gardens.
The Forbidden City was once off-limits to the general public, hence its name, but it is now open to visitors from all over the world. Visitors can explore the many halls, pavilions, and courtyards of the palace, each with its own unique history and purpose. The Forbidden City is also home to a vast collection of art and artifacts from China's rich cultural heritage, including paintings, calligraphy, and ceramics.
Another highlight of the Forbidden City is its beautiful gardens. The palace is surrounded by lush greenery and carefully manicured gardens, which provide a tranquil oasis in the midst of the bustling city. Visitors can stroll along the garden paths, taking in the beautiful flowers and trees, and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.
The Terracotta Warriors
The Terracotta Army, located in Xi'an, China, is one of the most remarkable archaeological discoveries of the modern era. Discovered in 1974 by a group of farmers digging a well, the Terracotta Army is a collection of thousands of life-size terracotta soldiers, horses, and chariots that were buried with the first emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang, over 2,000 years ago.
The sheer scale and detail of the Terracotta Army is truly awe-inspiring. The army is composed of three pits, each with its own unique set of soldiers and horses. In total, there are over 8,000 soldiers, 130 chariots, and 670 horses, all crafted with incredible attention to detail.
The soldiers themselves are each unique, with different expressions, hairstyles, and clothing, reflecting the diversity of the ancient Chinese army. They stand in formation, ready for battle, with their weapons at the ready. The horses and chariots are equally impressive, with intricate details and lifelike poses.
The Terracotta Army is not only impressive for its scale and detail, but also for its historical significance. The army was created to protect the emperor in the afterlife, and was buried with him in a massive tomb that has yet to be fully excavated. The army is a testament to the power and wealth of the Qin Dynasty, as well as the incredible craftsmanship and artistry of ancient China.
The Yangtze River
The Yangtze River, also known as the Chang Jiang, is the longest river in Asia and the third longest in the world. It is a vital waterway for China, providing transportation, irrigation, and hydroelectric power to the country's central and eastern regions. The river is also home to some of China's most beautiful scenery, making it a popular destination for tourists from all over the world.
Visitors to the Yangtze River can take a leisurely cruise along the river, passing through some of the most stunning gorges and landscapes in China. The Three Gorges, for example, is a section of the river that is known for its steep cliffs, lush forests, and dramatic rock formations. The Three Gorges Dam, the largest hydroelectric dam in the world, is also located in this area and is a popular stop for visitors.
The Yangtze River is home to a rich diversity of flora and fauna, with over 400 species of fish and hundreds of species of birds and mammals. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, fishing, and other outdoor activities along the river, taking in the natural beauty of this incredible waterway.
In addition to the natural beauty of the river, there are also many cultural and historical attractions along its banks. Ancient temples, pagodas, and other historical sites can be found along the river, providing a glimpse into China's rich cultural heritage.

The Panda Research Centre
Chengdu, located in the Sichuan province of China, is home to one of the world's most beloved and iconic animals: the giant panda. The city is home to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, also known as the Panda Research Centre, which is dedicated to conserving and protecting these endangered animals.
The Panda Research Centre is a must-visit destination for animal lovers and anyone interested in wildlife conservation. Visitors can see giant pandas up close and learn about the efforts being made to save this incredible species from extinction. The centre is home to over 100 pandas, including both adults and cubs, and visitors can witness these adorable creatures in their natural habitat.
In addition to seeing the pandas, visitors to the centre can also learn about the research and conservation efforts being undertaken to protect these animals. The centre conducts research on panda behavior, habitat, and breeding, and works to educate the public about the threats facing these animals and the importance of conservation.
The Panda Research Centre also provides visitors with the opportunity to participate in volunteer programs and other activities, such as feeding the pandas and cleaning their enclosures. These programs offer a unique and immersive experience that allows visitors to get up close and personal with these amazing animals.
The Temple of Heaven
The Temple of Heaven, located in Beijing, is one of the most important religious sites in China. Built in the early 15th century during the Ming Dynasty, the temple was designed as a place for emperors to perform important religious rituals and ceremonies, including offerings to the gods for a bountiful harvest.
The Temple of Heaven is known for its beautiful architecture and intricate details, which reflect the importance of the rituals and ceremonies that took place there. The temple is composed of several buildings, including the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, which is one of the most striking and recognizable structures in the temple complex. The hall is a circular building with a triple-eaved roof and intricate carvings and decorations, and is a true masterpiece of Chinese architectural design.
In addition to the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, the Temple of Heaven is also home to several other important buildings and structures, including the Echo Wall, which is known for its unique acoustic properties, and the Imperial Vault of Heaven, which is a circular building with a beautifully painted dome.
The Summer Palace
The Summer Palace, located in Beijing, is one of China's most famous and beautiful palace complexes. It was originally built in the 18th century as a summer retreat for the imperial family, and is now a popular destination for tourists from all over the world.
One of the most impressive features of the Summer Palace is its stunning gardens, which are considered some of the most beautiful in China. The gardens are meticulously landscaped and feature a variety of trees, flowers, and other plants, as well as several pavilions and temples.
The centrepiece of the Summer Palace is the beautiful Kunming Lake, which is surrounded by rolling hills and scenic vistas. Visitors can take a boat ride on the lake, enjoying the peaceful surroundings and taking in the natural beauty of the area. The lake is also home to several small islands, each with its own unique features and attractions.
In addition to the gardens and lake, the Summer Palace is also home to several impressive buildings and structures, including the Hall of Benevolence and Longevity, the Tower of Buddhist Incense, and the Marble Boat. These buildings are examples of the exquisite craftsmanship and architectural design that were characteristic of the Qing Dynasty.
The Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, located in Hunan Province, China, is a stunning natural wonder that is renowned for its towering sandstone pillars and breathtaking views. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts millions of visitors every year.
The park is home to over 3,000 sandstone pillars, some of which rise to heights of over 200 meters. These pillars were formed over millions of years through a process of erosion and weathering, and are considered some of the most stunning natural rock formations in the world.
Visitors to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park can hike through the park, taking in the stunning scenery and enjoying the fresh air. There are several hiking trails throughout the park, ranging from easy to challenging, and visitors can choose the trail that best suits their skill level and interests.
One of the most popular hiking trails in the park is the Golden Whip Stream, which follows a crystal-clear stream through a narrow canyon, surrounded by towering sandstone pillars. The trail is relatively easy and offers some of the most breathtaking views in the park.
Another popular attraction in the park is the Bailong Elevator, which is the highest outdoor elevator in the world. The elevator takes visitors up a cliff face to a viewing platform at the top, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
The Leshan Giant Buddha
The Leshan Giant Buddha, located in Sichuan Province, China, is one of the most impressive and iconic landmarks in the country. Carved into the side of a mountain overlooking the confluence of three rivers, the statue is over 1300 years old and is one of the largest Buddha statues in the world, standing at a towering height of 71 meters.
Visitors to the Leshan Giant Buddha can take a boat ride to get a closer look at the statue and learn about its history. The boat ride provides a unique perspective on the statue, allowing visitors to see the intricate details and stunning craftsmanship up close.
The statue was carved during the Tang Dynasty and took over 90 years to complete. It is considered a masterpiece of Chinese sculpture, with intricate carvings and details that reflect the skill and artistry of the ancient craftsmen who created it.
In addition to the statue itself, the Leshan Giant Buddha is also home to several other important cultural and historical sites. Visitors can explore the surrounding temples and pagodas, which offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of China.
The Shanghai Bund
The Bund, located in the heart of Shanghai, is one of the most famous and iconic waterfront promenades in the world. Known for its stunning views of the city skyline, the Bund is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
Visitors to the Bund can take a leisurely stroll along the river, enjoying the beautiful views of the city and the Huangpu River. The promenade is lined with historic buildings that date back to the early 20th century, when Shanghai was a thriving international port city. These buildings are a fascinating blend of architectural styles, including Gothic, Baroque, and Art Deco, and are considered some of the most beautiful in the world.
In addition to the beautiful views and historic buildings, the Bund is also home to a variety of restaurants and cafes, offering visitors the opportunity to enjoy a meal or a drink while taking in the vibrant energy of the city. Visitors can sample a variety of cuisines, from traditional Chinese dishes to international fare, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of this modern and cosmopolitan city.
At night, the Bund is especially beautiful, with the city skyline lit up in a dazzling display of lights and colors. Visitors can take a nighttime cruise along the river, enjoying the stunning views and the vibrant energy of the city after dark.